Interesting facts about Galway ‘Ireland's Cultural Heart’

Galway city may not be the biggest city in Ireland but it definitely has the biggest heart. From narrow streets a buzz with activity and Irish culture to amazing landscapes and seascapes - Galway has it all.

Here’s our list of ten interesting facts about Galway:

1. Galway is the third largest city in the Republic of Ireland and the only city in the province of Connacht. According to the 2011 census the population of Galway is 75,414.

2. The park at the center of Galway City is called John F. Kennedy Park however it is still known by most Irish people as Eyre Square. It was renamed John F. Kennedy Park in the 1970s. The square is home to the old city gates and its defending cannon.

3. Galway is nicknamed “The City of Tribes” (“Cathair na dTreabh”) after the fourteen merchant families who led the city during the Hiberno-Norman period.

4. The city is known for its vibrant lifestyle and numerous festivals, celebrations and events including the summer’s Galway Arts Festival which is known for its famous Macnas, arts group’s, parade.

5. There are many symbols associated with Galway. These include the Claddagh Ring, Galway's own symbol of love and friendship, worn the world over, the Aran Sweater, an emblem, not only of the Aran Islands, but of Ireland itself and the Galway Hookers, ships that distinguish themselves as Galway’s signature upon the water.

6. In 2007 Galway was named one of the top eight “sexiest cities” in the world and in 2008 it was ranked the 42nd best tourist destination in the world and 14th in Europe.

7. There are 6,870 Irish speakers in Galway city, which is nearly ten percent of the population. Galway is often referred to as the “Cultural Heart of Ireland” as it is most associated with the Irish language, music, song and dance traditions. Galway City is on the doorstep of Galway’s Gaeltacht (an area where Irish is spoken).

8. The Aran Island, probably Ireland’s most famous islands, are located just off the coast of Galway. The three islands, Inishmore , Inishmaan and Inisheer are the perfect place to visit to see Ireland at its best. They are also Gaeltacht areas.

9. The most famous person born in Galway is the great Hollywood actor Peter O’Toole. Peter Seamus Lorcan O’Toole was born in Connemara in 1932.

Most famous for his role in the 1962 “Lawrence of Arabia” poor O’Toole hold the world record for Oscar nominations without actually winning. He’s now up to eight nominations.

10. The longest place name in Ireland is Muckanaghederdauhaulia a townland in the civil parish of Kilcummin, County Galway. In Irish its name is Muiceanach idir Dhá Sháile, meaning "piggery between two briny places".